How To Protect Your Mattress During The Relocation Process

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Moving to a new home is an exciting adventure and there is a whole lot to do. I know for me the whole process can be quite stressful and throws many challenges at us along the way. One of the challenges many people face during a move is ensuring the protection and cleanliness of their belongings, especially their mattresses. Mattresses are costly and protecting them during the relocation process is essential to ensure they remain in excellent condition.

With over 38 years of experience in the mattress and furniture business, we would like to share some of our most valuable tips on how to protect your mattress during the relocation process and offer guidance on choosing the right moving supplies and equipment.

Preparation For The Big Mattress Move

Remove Bedding And Clean

Before packing your mattress, strip it of all bedding, including sheets, pillows, and mattress toppers, etc. Wash and dry the bedding items to ensure they are clean and ready for your new home. This step also allows you to inspect your mattress for any existing stains or damage that might need attention before the move. Lastly, we recommend a good cleaning before the move with your vacuum.

Mattresses collect dust, dirt, and dead skin cells. With your upholstery attachment, give it a good once over for a fresh start in your new home. If your mattress is 2-sided, don’t forget to vacuum the other side.

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Use Mattress Protectors To Protect Your Mattress

During the move, if you want an extra layer of protection, consider investing in a mattress protector. These waterproof and dust-resistant covers provide an added safeguard against marks, scrapes and scuffs. These can happen due to dirty moving vans, trucks and potential allergens during transit. Protectors are especially helpful if you’re moving in bad weather or if there’s a chance of liquids coming into contact with your mattress.

Invest In A Mattress Bag

One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your mattress during a move is to use a mattress bag or cover. Some are specially designed bags that are made from durable, tear-resistant material and come in normal bed sizes to fit different mattress sizes. Slip your mattress into a protective mattress bag to shield it from dust, dirt, and potential damage during transportation.

Make sure to seal the bag securely with packing tape to keep your mattress safe and clean. You can also look into a vacuum bag for mattresses. While all mattresses cannot be vacuum packed, the sealed bag with a slight vacuum process can ensure its protection during the relocation. We’ll talk more about mattress carriers in a moment.

Choose The Right Moving Supplies And Equipment

• Moving Straps: When maneuvering your mattress, use moving straps or harnesses. These handy tools distribute the weight evenly and make it easier to lift and transport the mattress without putting unnecessary stress on your back.
• Furniture Dolly: One of the most used tools around our showroom, truck, and warehouse. A furniture dolly can be a lifesaver when moving heavy items like mattresses and box springs. It reduces the physical effort required and allows for smoother transportation.
• Moving Blankets: Wrap your mattress in moving blankets for an additional layer of protection. These thick, padded blankets cushion your mattress against bumps and jolts during transit. Don’t have packing blankets? Grab an old blanket or sheet that you would not be concerned about should it get dirty or damaged.
• Stretch Wrap: Secure your mattress and blankets with stretch wrap. It helps keep everything in place and adds an extra layer of protection against dirt and moisture.
• Canvas Mattress Carrier: Our absolute favorite way to move a mattress. Think of it like a canvas tote you might take to the beach, only it is big enough for a mattress. Carrier totes include two handles on each end, and you carry it like a canoe with a person on each end and the mattress resting safely in a canvas pouch. Another option is a reusable mattress bag for moving that completely encases the mattress.  Most offer extra thick mattress protection cover with heavy-duty handles and strong zipper for taking the mattress in or out.
• Mattress Box: While they can be costly, you may want to consider obtaining a mattress box to provide an extra layer of protection during your move. You can reach out to local mattress stores, storage facilities, or moving companies to inquire about the availability of these specialized boxes. Mattress boxes are constructed from thick, sturdy cardboard designed specifically for transporting mattresses. They are ideal if you plan to entrust your mattress to a moving company or shipping company. These boxes are designed to fit various mattress sizes snugly, offering an added barrier against potential damage, dust, and dirt during transit. Using a mattress box can give you peace of mind, knowing that your mattress is well-protected throughout the relocation process.

Secure Your Mattress Properly

When loading your mattress onto the moving truck, make sure it’s placed flat and not bent or folded. Mattresses are designed to support weight evenly when placed flat, so avoid stacking heavy items on top of them. Secure your mattress in the truck using straps or ropes to prevent it from shifting during transportation, which can cause damage.

Mattresses can be moved in a pickup truck however securing them needs to be your #1 priority for not only the mattress but also those you will be sharing the roads with. Mattresses were not meant to fly.

Handle With Care

Be gentle when moving your mattress in and out of your old and new home. Enlist the help of friends or professional movers to avoid unnecessary bending, twisting, or dragging. Keep in mind that most mattresses are not designed to withstand excessive force, so handle them with care.

Assume that the mattress cannot be bent. Not sure, call the mattress maker or your dealer, they will know the limitations of your mattress should you have to fold it to get it up a stairway. Don’t void your warranty or ruin your mattress.

Avoid Carrying By Fabric Or Corded Handles

In the old days, they were standard on all mattresses A mattress may come equipped with fabric or corded handles. These handles are provided by the manufacturer to assist in positioning the mattress on the foundation or bed frame, not for carrying. Using the handles to carry the mattress may tear the fabric, compromising its integrity and potentially causing damage. Instead, follow the tips mentioned earlier in this article to use proper moving equipment like straps, dollies, and blankets to ensure the safe and damage-free transportation of your mattress.

Climate Control

Extreme temperature changes and humidity can affect the condition of your mattress and foundation which contains a lot of wood. Try to move your mattress in moderate weather conditions, and if that’s not possible, consider climate-controlled storage during the move. This will help prevent moisture buildup or heat damage.

Inspect Upon Arrival

Once you’ve relocated your mattress to your new home, inspect it thoroughly for any damage or signs of wear. If you notice any issues, address them promptly. Additionally, allow your mattress to air out if storage conditions are not ideal. If your mattress was vacuum-packed for the move, regain its shape before setting it up for use.

Final thoughts:

Protecting your mattress during the relocation of your home is an important must-do. Doing this helps to make sure that your mattress set will continue to provide you with good support and comfort. Finally, by investing in proper protective materials, choosing the right moving supplies and equipment, handling it with care, and taking preventive measures, you can ensure that your mattress arrives at its destination in pristine condition.

With these proper handling tips, you can rest easy knowing your mattress is safe and ready to provide you with a good night’s sleep in your new home for years to come.

We hope that after reading this you now have a better understanding of how to protect your mattress during the relocation process.

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